My wife Audrey, the extended Army Family and I, are deeply saddened over the tragedy at Ft Hood, Texas. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Fallen, the Wounded, their Families and loved ones, and each of you. You are all performing with skill and grace under these difficult and extraordinary circumstances.

I know that you will remain engaged and pull together during this time of loss. Our fellow men and women in uniform, their Families, and Department of Army Civilians and Contractors are relying on your continued commitment, compassion, and expertise.

We are a resilient Army and a proud Army Medical Department. We will draw strength from each other to get through this as we continue to focus on caring for our fellow Soldiers, their Families and our Army Civilians and Contractors.

Army Medicine. Army Strong.

ERIC B. SCHOOMAKER

Lieutenant General

The Surgeon General and Commanding General, USAMEDCOM